fundamentals

The beginning of the year is a great reminder that we always have a chance to change.

Although in making resolutions we should shoot always high, we must first make sure that there is a strong starting point, a strong root for our goal.   For example, if your goal is to run a marathon, you must be realistic and make sure that you have healthy knees and have been a previous runner before.   Or if you want to travel to a far away country, you must have a passport.   

With our yoga practice, before moving forward, there are many things that can be considered a "fundamental" part of yoga, and they are personal depending on what you're trying to reach in your practice.  When I started, i focused on my core as an essential part of my practice, for my goal was to get nice abs.  And these foundations have changed for me many times- from making my legs really strong so I can hold poses  for a long time to practicing Ujaji breath from the beginning to the end of a class.  I've achieved that- so now, my focus is to leave my ego out the door and be able to meditate through the entire practice.  I would never be able to pick these goals if I didn't have a strong core, strong legs and a strong concentration level to begin with.  For next year, my focus will probably be something else and my foundation will be even more solid.  I worked from the ground up.

As you move forward in your practice, have a strong foundation in which you can build your goals upon.  Start by picking a goal, breaking it down, and working from the ground up.  Lastly, make sure you celebrate the baby steps that take you to your goal and don't be upset if once you reach your goal you realize that's not even what you wanted in the first place- the journey is the fun part.

Have a lovely week!
Patricia

P.S.  If you're looking to start to practice or need a foundation refresher, try doing a workshop like this.